Regency Style Gilt and Faux Porphyry Iron Athenienne Jardinierre Plant Stand

REGENCY STYLE GILT AND FAUX-PORPHYRY IRON ATHENIENNE JARDINIERRE
Early 20th century, likely designed to be used as a jardinierre
Item # 407MYK10M

Unusual and eye-catching, this bold Regency-style athenienne is cleverly designed entirely out of iron, the surface of which has been decorated with parcel gilding, a baked enamel that simulates pophyry marble and polychromed uprights. The vessel has drainage points in the bottom that insinuate it was designed to be used as a jardinierre. This is surmounted by gilded lion masks with rings in their mouths over the tripart columnar supports stretched on a triangular mid-tier shelf, the loosely klismo legs swirling and curving outward over gilded animal paws and raised over a matched triangular base.

Inspired by antiquity, the athenienne was reborn in 1773 when J.F. Eberts marketed the design in his engravings, offering the "modern" use of the form as a means of elevating sculpture, working as a washstand, a planter or jardinierre, a brazier or even as a perfuming bowl.

The present example was made at the turn of the 20th century and is beautifully made with great attention to every detail. The surface is so lively: full of so much vigor, color and movement that it is impossible to look away!


Measurements: 38 7/8" H x 22 1/4" W x 18 1/2" D

Condition Report:
Minor wear and rubbing to the gilt, some minor scuffs and scratches to the enameled and painted portions, a fine presentation.